AFC · Group F
Japan at FIFA World Cup 2026
Japan qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the first 48-team edition, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Group F opponents
Japan plays the following three teams in the group stage. Top 2 advance to the Round of 32; the 3rd-placed team can still advance via the best-3rd-placed playoff route (8 of 12 third-placed teams qualify).
Japan fixtures
Japan in the tournament
AFC (Asia) sends 8 teams to 2026. South Korea, Japan, and Australia have all reached the knockout rounds in recent tournaments.
The 2026 World Cup is the largest in tournament history, with 48 teams divided into 12 groups of 4. The top 2 from each group advance automatically, along with the 8 best 3rd-placed teams from across all groups. That puts Japan in Group F with Netherlands, Tunisia, Sweden, competing for one of the 32 knockout slots.
Japan analysis
Frequently asked questions about Japan
When does Japan play at the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Japan plays 3 scheduled group-stage matches starting June 16, 2026. The opener is against SWE. See the full fixtures list below for every kickoff time and venue.
What group is Japan in at the World Cup 2026?
Japan is in Group F alongside Netherlands, Tunisia, Sweden. The top two from each group advance to the Round of 32, plus the 8 best 3rd-placed teams across all 12 groups.
What is Japan's FIFA ranking?
Japan entered the FIFA World Cup 2026 ranked #18 in the FIFA World Ranking. This places them in the top 25 globally. Rankings update through the qualification cycle.
Can Japan win the World Cup 2026?
Japan's pre-tournament strength rating is 76/100, derived from FIFA ranking, recent form, and squad depth. They are realistic dark horses capable of reaching the latter rounds. Try them in the bracket predictor to test your scenario.